Pastor arrested for detaining patients in church

Police in Soroti town arrested a pastor for holding critically ill patients in a church while he allegedly prayed for their healing.

The Galilee Christ Ministry Church, located in Amen Cell “B”, Amen Neighborhood in Soroti City West, had more than thirty Christians present, including five critically ill patients on Monday afternoon.

East Kyoga police spokesperson Edison Obukulem confirmed that Pastor Simon Peter Ogoba had been arrested and the patients were rescued and taken to Soroti Regional Hospital for medical attention.

Obukulem warned pastors not to admit patients into their churches, stating that pastors are not medical personnel and should instead refer patients for medical care.

“Pray for them but do not admit them, always refer them to medical attention,” he said.

Pastor Ogoba said they received people with different health complications and began praying and fasting for them.

He added that most of the patients were referred to Mulago Hospital, but their cases may not require hospitalization, but only prayer. He further explained that patients were seen at the church to avoid distractions at home.

“That’s why we tell them to stay here so we can pray until they heal,” he said.

One of the patients, Emmanuel Okello, said he was diagnosed with cancer in 2023 but did not receive proper treatment at local hospitals.

“I preferred God’s intervention and came to church. There are some improvements now. “I agree to return to Mulago Hospital but I have no means of transportation,” he stated.

The Mayor of Soroti Town Western Division, Mr. Patrick Peter Emaru, expressed surprise at the situation and encouraged herdsmen to consider the health of the people by allowing them to seek medical attention from qualified medical personnel.